Thursday, April 26, 2012

Calling Australia

When I look at the map at the bottom of our website, it's fun to see where in the world people are following us. I've seen people tune in from every continent except Africa and Antarctica. I must admit that seems pretty cool. But sometimes I wonder who these people are. I don't think I know anyone in Australia for example. So if you're one of the handful of people from down under, give us a shout and let us know how you found our blog:)

I'm just in the next city over, but I wanted say 'Hi!' I miss Elli, please tell her hi for me. I love your blog, and hearing all your fun stories, you guys are amazing. Just wanted to also let you know that my cousin had her paperwork approved, and they are getting ready to adopt from China :) She was very appreciative of your help. Thanks!~Joy

I've been checking in on your blog since you brought Graci home. So glad to hear her good news!!! We live in Ohio. I even have my husband read some of your posts. You both are very good writers and many days start my day off with a good laugh! We have 3 grown boys and 2 daughters from China (special needs). You all are such an inspiration to so many! Thank you.

Can't remember exactly how I stumbled across your blog but I am a church member with an interest in special needs adoption.My husband & I are foster parents, we did try to do special needs adoption but because of health problems I have we were turned down so I love to read about others experiences. I am in Sydney Australia - Heidi

Hi I've been following you from New Zealand and now we're in Australia. I think I found you through mormon mommy blogs, maybe... its been a while. I love your blog and so do my kids. It is such an inspiration to us and confirms the importance of families and the difference good parents make in the lives of children. Keep writing.Deb

We aren't in Australia but we are in Dubai, UAE. We are US expats from TX living here in UAE and loving it. Found your blog through a FB link to your announcement. Congratulations! We have two boys adopted from Russia and one little princess from a domestic adoption in TX. So good to see another family with a passion for adoption.

Well, I guess you technically still do not have followers from Africa but we just moved to the USA from Ethiopia. Does that count? We lived there for 5 years as missionaries and in our Grandparenting years God sent us two beautiful children that had no other options so we took them as our own and are now starting our family over again. They are younger than all five of our grandchildren but they are a true gift from God and they are keeping us young. Tariku has been with us since he was 3 mo. old, he is now 6 and Weyitu was with us when she was a year old for special surgery. She was not excepted back into her village and so we adopted her 4 months ago and she just turned 4. Love your video and your heart for the kids!!!Blessings to you all.Lynn Hunt

Meet Conner and Cali

When we fell in love 15 years ago, we started down a path that has been challenging, exhausting, and breathtakingly beautiful. Here we chronicle the blessings and stressings of parenting some pretty amazing children. We think they're the perfect travel companions as we look forward to the next fork in the road. Welcome to our journey.

Jeremy and Christianne

Taylor Jeremy--16

Parker Matthew--14

The red-headed social butterfly, he's our all-star athlete, top student, outdoor-loving, spunky second-born, with a heart of pure gold!

Jessica Anne "Jesi"--12

Our little princess with the big smile, Jesi loves dress-ups and tea parties, reading, playing with her siblings, and snuggling. She sparkles!

Jacob Michael-- 6/8/2004

Little one of heavenly birth, born too soon to bloom on earth. You have taught us so much--we love you, Jacob!

Emily Anne "Emmy"--9/28/2005

Emily's exquisite little hands and feet have left their mark in this world. Her body was tiny, but her spirit enormous. We miss her!

Elizabeth Mei "Elli"--10

Elli's world may be dark, but she's the light of our lives! Lover of music, chocolate, and Mommy's arms, she brings joy to all who know her!!

Gracelin Kate "Graci"--17

Showing true grace throughout her battles with heart disease and pulmonary hypertension, our Gracester is loved by everyone! She's smart, gorgeous, friendly, and has faith to move mountains!

Alexander Philip "Xander"--10

With a spunk and smile that could outmatch anyone's, our Xander has not let Cloves Syndrome get the best of him. Adopted at age 4 from China, he loves having a family, eating junk-food, and playing with his many friends!

Alexis Li "Lexi"--10

Meet the friendliest girl on the planet! Blind from birth, Lexi amazes all of us with her braille skills, determination, talents, but mosly by the way she spends her days SMILING. She is an angel in every way. We are thrilled to have our darling daughter home three years from China!!

Sophia Breanne "Sophi"--6

Her eyes called out to us from half-way around the world. Little Sophi is beautiful, smart, and coy. She can do amazing things with her little toes and we think she's about the cutest thing on the planet! Welcome home, baby girl!

Calais Rose "Cali"--14

Charming Cali joined our family in December of 2012. This girl is beautiful both inside and out. Born with spina bifida, Cali is confined to a wheelchair, but that does not keep her from enjoying life to the fullest. She is smart, opinionated, strong, and lovely in every way.

Conner Allen-- 15

Meet our newest addition! Wu Jia Xia is from Wuhan City in China. Blind from birth, he will blow you away with his incredible talent on the piano. More importantly, we are told he is sweet, compassionate, hard working and ready for a FAMILY of his own. We can't wait to get our arms around you, Conner!